Oscillating tool

ABSTRACT

A clamp arrangement for releasably securing an accessory to an oscillating power tool can include a tool body including a motor that drives an output member. A clamp assembly can include a first clamp member that moves relative to the accessory between a closed position wherein the clamp assembly retains the accessory and an open position wherein the first clamp member of the clamp assembly is offset from the accessory permitting removal of the accessory from the clamp assembly. A lever can have a user engagement portion and a pivot portion including a pivot axle. The lever can be pivotally coupled to the tool body about the pivot axle between a first position, wherein the clamp assembly is in the closed position and a second position wherein movement of the user engagement portion of the lever causes the clamp assembly to be moved to the open position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/329,480, filed Apr. 29, 2010. The entire disclosureof the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to power hand tools and more specificallyto a clamp arrangement for releasably securing an accessory to anoscillating power hand tool.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Power hand tools are provided in many examples for performing a widerange of tasks. For example, some power hand tools can include an outputmember that is driven by a motor and that couples with an accessory toperform a working operation onto a work piece. For example, some handtools can provide various configurations for attaching cuttingaccessories, grinding accessories, sanding accessories and the like.Some power hand tools are configured as oscillating tools that areoperable to transmit an oscillating motion onto the accessory.

During the course of performing a working operation, a user may want toexchange one accessory for another accessory. For example, a user maywant to exchange one grinding accessory with another grinding accessoryor one sanding platen with another sanding platen. Alternatively, a usermay wish to replace a cutting accessory with another cutting accessory.It is also contemplated that a user may want to replace a givenaccessory dedicated to one task (such as sanding) with another accessorydedicated toward another task (such as cutting for example). In anyevent, many power hand tools require the use of a secondary tool to swapout accessories. For example, many power hand tools require the use of ahand screw driver that can be used to retract a fastener that may lockthe accessory to the output member of the power hand tool. In otherexamples, a wrench or other hand tool may be required to remove orunlock a given accessory from the power hand tool and subsequently lockanother accessory back to the power hand tool.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not acomprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

A clamp arrangement for releasably securing an accessory to a power toolcan include a tool body including a motor that drives an output member.A clamp assembly can include a first clamp member that moves relative tothe accessory between a closed position wherein the clamp assemblyretains the accessory and an open position wherein the first clampmember of the clamp assembly is offset from the accessory permittingremoval of the accessory from the clamp assembly. A lever can have auser engagement portion and a pivot portion including a pivot axle. Thelever can be pivotally coupled to the tool body about the pivot axlebetween a first position, wherein the clamp assembly is in the closedposition and a second position wherein movement of the user engagementportion of the lever causes the clamp assembly to be moved to the openposition. The user engagement portion of the lever can be positionedintermediate the tool housing and the accessory.

According to additional features, the accessory can oscillate about alongitudinal axis that is located intermediate the pivot axle and theuser engagement portion. A first biasing member can bias the clampassembly toward the closed position. The clamp assembly can furthercomprise a second clamp member having a first portion that opposes thefirst clamp member and cooperates with the first clamp member to clampthe accessory between the first and second clamp members.

According to other features, the first clamp member can include a firstclamp body having one of a first plurality of protrusions extending froma first clamping surface and a first plurality of recesses formed intothe first clamping surface. The second clamp member can include a secondclamp body that has a second clamping surface that opposes the firstclamping surface. The second clamping surface can include the other ofthe first plurality of protrusions and first plurality of recesses,wherein the first plurality of protrusions are configured tocooperatively locate into the corresponding first plurality of recessesin the closed position. The first clamp body can include an annularflange that nests in a pocket formed on the lever.

According to still other features, the second clamp body can furtherinclude an auxiliary attachment surface that is distinct from the secondclamping surface. The auxiliary attachment surface can be configured toselectively and alternatively connect with a secondary accessory. Theauxiliary attachment surface can further include one of a secondplurality of protrusions and second plurality of recesses thereon thatare configured to cooperatively mate with the secondary accessory. Thesecond clamping surface and the auxiliary attachment surface can faceaway from each other. In one example, a second biasing member can bedisposed between the user engagement portion of the lever and the toolbody. The second biasing member can bias the user engagement portion ofthe lever away from the tool body.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. The description and specific examples in this summaryare intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended tolimit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a clamp arrangement constructed inaccordance to one example of the present teachings and shown operativelyassociated with an exemplary power hand tool for releasably securing afirst or a second accessory;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a clamp assembly of the clamparrangement shown in FIG. 1 and shown with the clamp assembly in theclosed position retaining the first accessory;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 2 and shownwith the clamp assembly in the closed position and a lever of the clampassembly in a first position;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 4 andshown with the clamp assembly in the open position resulting from thelever being rotated about a pivot axle into a second position whereinthe first accessory is subsequently lifted out of engagement with thefirst clamp member;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 5 shownwith the clamp assembly in the open position and the lever in the secondposition and illustrating the first accessory being removed from theclamp assembly;

FIGS. 7-9 are perspective views of the clamp assembly that generallycorrespond to the sequence illustrated in FIGS. 4-6 for removing thefirst accessory from the clamp assembly;

FIGS. 10-12 are perspective views of the clamp assembly that illustratean exemplary sequence of orienting the first accessory in a differentrotational position relative to the clamp assembly;

FIGS. 13-15 are cross-sectional views of the clamp assembly takenthrough a spindle of the power hand tool and shown with the firstaccessory rotated at different positions around an axis of the spindle;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the clamp arrangement of the presentteachings and shown with the clamp assembly secured to the secondaccessory;

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the clamp assembly and secondaccessory illustrated in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 16 and shownwith the clamp assembly in the open position resulting from movement ofthe lever around the pivot axle to the second position for receipt of amounting collar of the second accessory;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 18 andshown with the mounting collar of the second accessory positionedgenerally between first and second clamp members of the clamp assemblywhile the lever is maintained in the second position;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 19 andillustrating the clamp assembly in the closed position as a result ofthe lever being released and returned to the first position causing thefirst and second clamp members to clamp the mounting collar;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary third accessory;

FIG. 22 is a partial cross-section of the clamp assembly and shown withthe third accessory secured to an auxiliary mounting surface of thesecond clamp member;

FIGS. 23-25 illustrate an exemplary assembly sequence of a fourthaccessory having a throat that defines a relatively narrower opening ascompared to the first accessory wherein the throat is slidably directedthrough channels provided on the spindle;

FIG. 26 is an exploded partial plan view of the fourth accessory andshown adjacent to the second clamp member and illustrated with thespindle in cross-section taken through the channels;

FIG. 27 is a partial plan view of a fifth accessory having circularmounting passages according to additional features;

FIG. 28 is a partial plan view of the fifth accessory shown in FIG. 27and illustrated interfacing with the second clamp member;

FIG. 29 is a side view of a clamp arrangement constructed in accordanceto another example of the present teachings and shown operativelyassociated with an exemplary hand tool;

FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the clamp assembly of FIG. 29 and shownwith the clamp assembly in a closed position and a lever of the clampassembly in a first position;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the second clamp member of the clampassembly of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a plan view of an accessory constructed in accordance to oneexample of the present teachings;

FIG. 33 is a side view of the accessory of FIG. 32 shown placed on thesecond clamp member and shown with the first clamp member removed forillustrative purposes; and

FIG. 34 is a side view of the clamp assembly shown during removal of theaccessory where the lever is moved from the first position (phantom) toa second position (solid line) and the first clamp member is raised awayfrom engagement with the accessory.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference tothe accompanying drawings.

With initial reference to FIG. 1, a clamp arrangement constructed inaccordance to one example of the present disclosure is shown andgenerally identified at reference numeral 10. The clamp arrangement 10is shown operatively associated with a power tool 12 for selectively andalternatively retaining various accessories, such as a first accessory14 a or a second accessory 14 b. The exemplary power tool can generallyinclude a tool body 18 including a housing 20 that generally contains amotor 22 that drives an output member 24. The output member 24 can becoupled to a spindle 26. The exemplary power tool 12 is configured forproviding an oscillating motion onto the spindle 26. It will beappreciated that while the clamp arrangement 10 is disclosed herein aspart of an oscillating power hand tool, the clamp arrangement 10 may bealso configured for use with other power tools that releasably secure anaccessory.

The clamp arrangement 10 can further include a clamp assembly 30 thatoperatively cooperates with an actuator such as a lever 32. The clampassembly 30 can generally include a first clamp member 36 and a secondclamp member 38. The lever 32 can include a lever arm 40 that includes auser engagement portion 42 and a block 44. The lever 32 can furtherinclude a pivot portion 46 having a pivot axle 48.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the second accessory 14 b will bebriefly described. The second accessory 14 b can generally include asanding platen 50 having a platen body 52 and a mounting collar 54. Inthe example shown, the mounting collar 54 can be coupled to the body 52by way of a series of fasteners 56. The body 52 can be configured tosupport an abrasive sheet, such as sand paper and the like as is knownin the art. The mounting collar 54 can generally include an upper plateportion 60 having a plurality of mounting features 62. In the exampleshown, the mounting features 62 are generally in the form of passagesformed through the mounting collar 54. The mounting collar 54 cangenerally include an open-ended aperture or throat 66 configured toaccept the spindle 26 in an assembled position as will be describedherein.

With additional reference now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the clamp assembly 30will be described in greater detail. The second clamp member 38 caninclude a second clamp body 70 generally in the form of a ring having acentral opening 72. The second clamp body 70 can generally comprise asecond clamping surface 74 having a plurality of mounting features 76formed thereon. In the example shown, the plurality of mounting features76 are in the form of male protrusions 78. In the particular exampleshown, eight protrusions each having a tapered shape or form areprovided. However, other configurations are contemplated. The secondclamp body 70 can additionally include an auxiliary attachment surface80 having a plurality of auxiliary mounting features 82 (FIG. 2). Again,the plurality of auxiliary mounting features 82 are shown in the form ofmale protrusions and may include a similar eight protrusionconfiguration as provided on the second clamping surface 74. Theauxiliary mounting features 82 can each have a diameter of 2.4 mm. Otherconfigurations are contemplated.

With reference now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first clamp member 36 cangenerally include a first clamp member body 84 having an annular flange86. The first clamp member body 84 can include a first clamping surface87 having a plurality of mounting features 88 (FIG. 4). In the exampleshown, the plurality of mounting features 88 are in the form of recessesthat cooperatively receive the corresponding plurality of mountingfeatures 76 of the second clamp member 38. The mounting features 88 canhave any configuration, such as blind bores, or circular grooves beingsuitable to accept the male protrusions of the mounting features 76. Theannular flange 86 can generally extend radially on an end of an outerhub 90 of the first clamp member body 84. The annular flange 86 can havea lever opposing surface 91. The first clamp member body 84 can furtherinclude an inner hub 92 that defines a first clamp member opening 94.The first clamp member opening 94 can be configured to receive thespindle 26. An annular channel 96 can be formed between the outer hub 90and the inner hub 92. The annular channel 96 can have a terminal surface98.

The lever 32 can generally include a lever body 100 having the userengagement portion 42 formed generally on a first end and the pivotportion 46 formed on an opposite end. According to one example, thepivot portion 46 can generally include a pair of lobes 102 that eachdefine an axle passage 104. The lever body 100 can further include apocket 108 having a flange opposing surface 110 for generally receivingtwo steel balls and the annular flange 86 of the first clamp member 36.The block 44 can generally include a pair of transverse posts 116 and ablind bore 118. The axle passages 104 provided in the lobes 102 can beconfigured to receive the pivot axle 48.

The clamp arrangement 10 can additionally include a first biasing member120 and a second biasing member 122. The first biasing member 120 can beat least partially received by the annular channel 96 provided on thefirst clamp member body 84. The second biasing member 122 can be atleast partially received into the blind bore 118 of the block 44. Thefirst biasing member 120 can be generally supported on an upper end by awasher 126 that is correspondingly supported by a bearing 130 journalledaround the spindle 26. The spindle 26 can additionally include a pair offlats 132 and channels 134 formed on a distal end. The flats 132 cangenerally correspond to the profile of the opening 72 formed in thesecond clamp member 38. The flats 132 can cooperate with the profile ofthe opening 72 to key the second clamp member 38 to the spindle 26 andinhibit rotation of the second clamp member 38 around a spindle axis140. In the example provided, the output member 24 can be generally inthe form of a drive fork that can impart rotational motion onto thespindle 26 around the spindle axis 140. Other configurations arecontemplated. A support bearing 142 can be arranged on one end of thespindle 26 for cooperatively mounting within the housing 20.

Returning to FIG. 3, the first accessory 14 a can be generally in theform of a cutting member having a working portion 146 and an attachmentportion 148. The attachment portion 148 can include a plurality ofmounting features 150 in the form of passages formed through the firstaccessory 14 a. The attachment portion 148 can further include anopen-ended aperture or throat 152 for selectively receiving a portion ofthe spindle 26 in an assembled position as will be described herein.

With specific reference now to FIGS. 4-6, an exemplary sequence ofremoving the first accessory 14 a from the clamp assembly 30 will bedescribed according to one example of the present teachings. Withinitial reference to FIG. 4, the clamp assembly 30 is shown in a closedposition wherein the biasing member 120 is supported on a first end bythe washer 126 and provides a downward biasing force onto the firstclamp member 36 at the annular channel 96. It is important to recognizethat in the particular example shown, the second clamp member 38 isfixed to the spindle 26. As shown, the male protrusions of the mountingfeatures 76 selectively locate into the recesses of the mountingfeatures 88 formed on the first clamp member 36. The first accessory 14a therefore is clamped between the second clamping surface 74 and thefirst clamping surface 87 while the male protrusions of the mountingfeatures 76 locate through passages of the mounting features 150 formedon the first accessory 14 a. Those skilled in the art will recognizethat while some of the mounting features are described and shown as maleprotrusions and some of the mounting features are described and shown asrecesses, the locations may be swapped. Moreover, other interlockinggeometries may be used. As viewed in FIG. 4, the lever 32 is shown andgenerally described herein as the first position.

With specific reference now to FIG. 5, the lever 32 is shown rotatedaround a pivot axle axis 160 of the pivot axle 48 to a second position.In the second position, the clamp assembly 30 is generally in the openposition where the first clamp member 36 is displaced or offset relativeto the second clamp member 38. In order to move the lever 32 from thefirst position (FIG. 4) to the second position (FIG. 5), a user can urgethe user engagement portion 42 (such as by pulling the user engagementportion 42 with an index finger) in a direction generally upwardly asviewed in FIG. 5 and toward the housing 20. In order to rotate the lever32 around the pivot axle 48, a user must overcome the biasing forces ofthe respective first and second biasing members 120 and 122. Duringrotation of the lever 32 around the pivot axle 48, the flange opposingsurface 110 in the pocket 108 of the lever body 100 (FIG. 3) generallytransmits an upward force (in a direction against the biasing force ofthe first biasing member 120) onto the lever opposing surface 91. Inthis regard, the lever 32 can generally lift the first clamp member 36at the annular flange 86 to move the first clamping surface 87 away fromthe second clamping surface 74. It will be appreciated that othermechanical configurations other than a lever that pivots about a pivotaxle may be used. For example, a camming configuration or slidableactuation member may be additionally or alternatively employed.

With the clamp assembly 30 in the open position, the first and secondclamp members 36 and 38, respectively, provide enough clearance, suchthat a user can remove the first accessory 14 a away from the clampassembly 30. In one example, it may be necessary to initially lift thefirst accessory 14 a away from the male protrusions of the mountingfeatures 76 before pulling the first accessory 14 a away from the clampassembly 30 (FIG. 6).

The clamp arrangement 10 of the present disclosure can provide asignificant mechanical advantage that can provide a particularly robustclamping action onto an accessory in a tight package requiringrelatively small space. In this regard, by mounting the pivot axle 48 onan opposite end of the user engagement portion 42 a user be offered asignificant moment arm that can act against the respective biasingforces of the first and second biasing members 120 and 122 while stilloffering a significant clamping force. According to other advantages,the location of the user engagement portion 42 provides an ergonomicallypleasing configuration adjacent to the housing 20 where a user's palmwould be generally positioned. In this regard, an index finger caneasily negotiate onto the user engagement portion 42 without having tosignificantly reposition a user's palm. Moreover, the user engagementportion 42 can be generally located between the housing 20 and the firstaccessory 14 a, such that a user can easily pull up on the userengagement portion 42 in a direction toward the housing with one handwhile removing/installing any given accessory with the other hand.

With specific reference now to FIGS. 7-9, perspective views of the clampassembly 30 are shown wherein FIG. 7 generally corresponds to thesectional view of FIG. 4 of the clamp assembly 30 in the closed positionand the lever 32 in the first position. FIG. 8 generally corresponds tothe sectional view of FIG. 5 where the clamp assembly 30 is in the openposition and the lever 32 is in the second position. FIG. 9 generallycorresponds to the sectional view of FIG. 6 where the clamp assembly 30is in the open position and the lever 32 is in the second position whilethe first accessory 14 a is removed from the clamp assembly 30.

With reference now to FIGS. 10-12, the clamp assembly 30 can be used toselectively clamp a given accessory, such as the first accessory 14 athrough a variety of rotational orientations around the spindle axis140. As identified above, the second clamp member 38 includes eightmounting features 76 however other configurations may be incorporated.The first accessory 14 a includes nine mounting features or passages150. The first accessory 14 a can be arranged in a plurality ofdifferent rotational orientations, such that the male protrusions 78 canbe aligned for passing through the passages 150 by rotating the firstaccessory 14 a into the orientation desired. As can be appreciated, itmay be advantageous to orient the first accessory 14 a differently for aparticular task. Once the passages 150 are aligned for receipt of themale protrusions 78 on the second clamp member 38 the attachment portion148 of first accessory is dropped onto the second clamping surface 74.

In the exemplary sequence shown in FIGS. 10-12, a user can initiallypull up the lever 32 at the user engagement portion 42 causing theannular flange 86 of the first clamp member 36 to be lifted aspreviously described. With the first clamp member 36 displaced from thesecond clamp member 38, the first accessory 14 a can be oriented intothe desired radial position and aligned with the corresponding maleprotrusions 78. The user can then release the user engagement portion 42allowing the first biasing member 120 (and the second biasing member122) to urge the first clamp member 36 in a direction toward the secondclamp member 38 until the respective first and second clamping surfaces87 and 74, respectively, engage and clamp the attachment portion 148 ofthe first accessory 14 a (FIG. 12).

Turning now to FIGS. 13-15, various examples are shown with the firstaccessory 14 a mounted around the second clamp member 38. In theexamples shown, the male protrusions of the mounting features 76 can bearranged to allow the first accessory 14 a to be indexed at about thirtydegree increments around the second clamping surface 74. When describingthe male protrusions of the mounting features 76 in the context of aclock, mounting features are absent at the two, four, eight and teno'clock positions. Other examples are contemplated.

With reference now to FIGS. 16-20, the clamp assembly 30 will bedescribed clamping the second accessory 14 b according to one example ofthe present teachings. As described above, the clamp assembly 30 isnormally biased into the closed position. As illustrated in FIG. 18, thelever 32 is shown rotated around the pivot axle axis 160 of the pivotaxle 48 to the second position. In the second position, the clampassembly 30 is generally in the open position where the first clampmember 36 is displaced relative to the second clamp member 38. With theclamp assembly 30 in the open position, the first and second clampmembers 36 and 38, respectively provide enough clearance to accept themounting collar 54 of the second accessory 14 b.

While a user maintains an upward force on the user engagement portion 42of the lever 32, the second accessory 14 b is directed toward the clampassembly 30, such that the spindle 26 is generally located through thethroat 66 (FIG. 19). Once the desired mounting features 62 of themounting collar 54 are aligned with the desired mounting features 76 ofthe second clamp member 38, the user can release the user engagementportion 42 of the lever 32 allowing the respective first and secondbiasing members 120 and 122 to return the lever 32 to the first position(FIG. 20). In the first position, the clamp assembly 30 is in the closedposition, such that the first clamping surface 87 of the first clampmember 36 as well as the second clamping surface 74 of the second clampmember 38 cooperatively clamp the mounting collar 54 of the secondaccessory 14 b.

Turning now to FIGS. 21 and 22, a third accessory 14 c and a method ofattaching the third accessory 14 c to the auxiliary attachment surface80 of the second clamp member 38 will be described. The third accessory14 c can generally include a body 170 having a generally iron-shaped. Aplurality of mounting features 176 can be formed around an upper surface178 of the body 172 of the third accessory 14 c. In the example shown,the plurality of mounting features 176 can be in the form of recesseshaving a profile that generally mates with the plurality of mountingfeatures 82 extending from the auxiliary attachment surface 80. Amounting aperture 180 can be formed through the body 172 of the thirdaccessory 14 c for accepting a fastener 182 (FIG. 22). The fastener 182can threadably mate with a threaded bore 186 defined at a distal end ofthe spindle 26. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatmovement of the lever 32 will not affect the attachment of the thirdaccessory 14 c as the third accessory 14 c only interfaces with thesecond clamp member 38 that is rigidly fixed to the spindle 26.

Turning now to FIGS. 23-26, a fourth accessory 14 d will be describedcooperating with the spindle 26 and the second clamp member 38. Thechannels 134 formed in the spindle 26 can provide clearance foraccepting other accessories, such as accessories that may define athroat 152 having a smaller entrance. In this regard, the reducedgeometry throat of an accessory may be initially negotiated through thechannel 134 prior to rotating the accessory into the desired orientationrelative to the spindle 26 and subsequently clamping the accessory tothe clamp assembly 30.

The fourth accessory 14 d can have an open-ended aperture or throat 190formed on an attachment portion 192. The throat 190 can generally span adistance 194. As compared to the throat 152 on the first accessory 14 a,the throat 190 provides a reduced distance 194. The channels 134provided on the spindle 26 are offset a distance 196 that is generallyless than the distance 194, such that the throat 190 can be advancedthrough the channels 134 until clearing the channels 134 at an oppositeend of the spindle 26 (see FIG. 24). Once the throat 190 has cleared thechannels 134, a user can rotate the fourth accessory 14 d to a desiredorientation around the second clamping surface 74 of the second clampmember 38. Once the desired orientation has been attained, theattachment portion 192 of the fourth accessory 14 d can be dropped ontothe second clamping surface 74 while the male protrusions of themounting features 76 locate through respective passages 198 formedthrough the attachment portion 192 on the fourth accessory 14 d (FIG.25). FIG. 26 illustrates a plan view that represents the relativedistances 194 of the throat 190 and 196 of the channels 134.

With reference now to FIGS. 27 and 28, a fifth accessory 14 e is shownthat has an attachment portion 200 having a plurality of mountingformations 202 formed therethrough. The mounting formations 202 can begenerally in the form of circular apertures. The circular apertures canhave a tapered shape. Other dimensions are contemplated that may stillhave a diameter (or opening in general) that is large enough to acceptthe diameter of the respective mounting features 76 on the second clampmember 38.

With reference now to FIGS. 29-34, a clamp arrangement constructed inaccordance to another example of the present disclosure is shown andgenerally identified at reference numeral 210. The clamp arrangement 210is shown operatively associated with a power tool 212 for selectivelyand alternatively retaining various accessories such as a sixthaccessory 14 f. The exemplary power tool 212 can generally include atool body 218 including a housing 220 that generally contains a motor222 that drives an output member 224. The output member 224 can becoupled to a spindle 226. The exemplary power tool 212 is configured forproviding an oscillating motion onto the spindle 226. As with the clamparrangement 10 described above, the clamp arrangement 210, whiledescribed herein as part of an oscillating hand tool, can also be usedwith other power tools that releasably secure an accessory.

The clamp arrangement 210 can further include a clamp assembly 230 (FIG.30) that operatively cooperates with a lever 232. The clamp assembly 230can generally include a first clamp member 236 and a second clamp member238. The lever 232 can include a lever arm 240 that includes a userengagement portion 242. The lever 232 can further include a pivotportion 246 having a pivot axle 248.

With specific reference now to FIGS. 30 and 31, the second clamp member238 will be further described. The second clamp member 238 can include asecond clamp body 250 generally in the form of a ring having a centralopening 252. The second clamp body 250 can generally comprise a secondclamping surface 254 having a plurality of mounting features 256 formedthereon. In one example, the second clamp body 250 and the plurality ofmounting features 256 can be formed as a unitary, monolithic part, suchas by precision cast steel.

As will become appreciated by the following discussion, the second clampmember 238 is configured such that the second clamping surface 254 doesnot actually engage the sixth accessory 14 f. In the example shown, theplurality of mounting features 256 are in the form of male conicalprotrusions 258. In the particular example shown, eight protrusions ormale conical protrusions 258 are configured to each have a tapered bodyportion 260 that generally tapers from the second clamping surface 254toward a tip 262. The tip 262 can generally comprise a sphericalgeometry. The male conical protrusions 258 each have a height 264measured from the second clamping surface 254 to a terminal end 266 ofthe tip 262. The male conical protrusions 258 can further define anangle 270 measured from a longitudinal axis 272 to an outer surface 276of the tapered body portion 260.

The male conical protrusions 258 can be configured to engage aperturesof the sixth accessory 14 f at a position intermediate the terminal end266 of the tip 262 and the second clamping surface 254. Explaineddifferently, the sixth accessory 14 f can be clamped with the lever 232in a first position and the clamp assembly 230 closed (FIG. 30), suchthat the sixth accessory 14 f is offset a distance 280 from the secondclamping surface 254. According to one example, the height 264 can besubstantially about 4 mm and the angle 270 can be substantially aboutbetween 20° and 30° and more specifically 25°. A diameter of the maleconical protrusions 258 measured at the second clamping surface 254 canbe substantially about 3 mm. The surface finish of the male conicalprotrusions 258 can be sufficiently hard so as not to deform frominteraction with the sixth accessory 14 f. In one example, the maleconical protrusions are at least 10 points (Rockwell hardness testing)harder than the sixth accessory 14 f. Other heights and angles arecontemplated.

With specific reference now to FIG. 30, the first clamp member 236 cangenerally include a first clamp member body 284 having an annular flange286. The first clamp member body 284 can include a clamping surface 287that has a plurality of mounting features 288 that are in the form ofrecesses that cooperatively receive the corresponding plurality ofmounting features 256 of the second clamp member 238. The mountingfeatures 288 can have any configuration, such as blind bores havingdiameters suitable to accept at least portions of the male conicalprotrusions 258 of the mounting features 256. The annular flange 286 cangenerally extend radially from an outer hub 290 of the first clampmember body 284. The annular flange 286 can have a lever opposingsurface 291. The first clamp member body 284 can further include aninner hub 292 that defines a first clamp member opening 294. The firstclamp member opening 294 can be configured to receive the spindle 226.An annular channel 296 can be formed between the outer hub 290 and theinner hub 292. The annular channel 296 can have a terminal surface 298.

The lever 232 can generally include a lever body 300 having the userengagement portion 242 formed generally on a first end and the pivotportion 246 formed on an opposite end. According to one example, thepivot portion 246 can generally include a pair of lobes 302 that eachdefine an axle passage similar to the axle passage 104 described abovewith respect to FIG. 3. The lever body 300 can further include a pocket308 having a flange opposing surface 310. A retainer plate 312 can beformed on the lever body 100. The retainer plate 312 can be configuredto rest on the annular flange 286 when the lever 232 is released. Thepivot axle 248 can be configured to pass through the respective axlepassages of the lobes 302 and a corresponding axle passage 316 formedthrough an arm 318 extending from the housing 220.

The clamp arrangement 210 can additionally include a biasing member 320and a washer 326. The biasing member 320 can be at least partiallyreceived by the annular channel 296 provided on the first clamp memberbody 284. The biasing member 320 can be generally supported on an upperend by a washer 326 that is correspondingly supported by a flange on thespindle 226. A distal end of the spindle 226 can be configured to attaina press fit relationship (through the central opening 252) with thesecond clamp body 250.

With particular reference now to FIG. 32, the sixth accessory 14 f willbe described. The sixth accessory 14 f can generally be in the form of acutting member having a working portion 346 and an attachment portion348. The attachment portion 348 can include a plurality of mountingfeatures 350 in the form of passages formed through the sixth accessory14 f. The attachment portion 348 can further include an open-endedaperture or throat 352 for selectively receiving a portion of thespindle 226 in an assembled position as will be described herein.According to one example of the present teachings, the plurality ofmounting features 350 can be circular and have a diameter 358 ofsubstantially about 2.8 mm. The throat 352 can define an angle 360 ofabout 60°. Other dimensions are contemplated. It will be appreciatedhowever that the diameter 358 is selected to have a geometry such thatit will engage the tapered body portion 260 of the male conicalprotrusions 258 at a location intermediate the terminal end 266 of thetip 262 and the second clamping surface 254. More particularly, thediameter 358 has a geometry that will ensure the attachment portion 348does not bottom out or rest on top of the second clamping surface 254.In other words, the offset 280 (FIG. 30) must be greater than zero.

The mounting features 256 can be arranged to allow the sixth accessory14 f to be indexed at about 30° increments around the second clampingsurface 254. Like the mounting features 76 described above, the mountingfeatures 256 are absent at the two, four, eight and ten o'clockpositions. It is further appreciated that the clamp assembly 230 can beused to clamp other accessories, such as described herein. Otherconfigurations are contemplated.

With specific reference now to FIGS. 30 and 34, an exemplary sequence ofremoving the sixth accessory 14 f from the clamp assembly 230 will bedescribed according to one example of the present teachings. Withinitial reference to FIG. 30, the clamp assembly 230 is shown in aclosed position wherein the biasing member 320 is supported on a firstend by the washer 326 and provides a downward biasing force onto thefirst clamp member 236 at the annular channel 296. It is important torecognize that in the particular example shown, the second clamp member238 is fixed relative to the spindle 226. As shown, the male conicalprotrusions 258 selectively locate into the recesses of the mountingfeatures 288 formed on the first clamp member 236. The sixth accessory14 f therefore is clamped between the clamping surface 287 and the outersurfaces 276 of the respective male conical protrusions 258. Again, thesixth accessory 14 f is clamped at a location offset from the secondclamping surface 254 of the second clamp member 238. As viewed in FIG.30, the lever 232 is shown and generally described herein as the firstposition. Because the sixth accessory 14 f is specifically engaged atthe mounting features 350, the sixth accessory 14 f can be securelyfixed against the clamping surface 287 with minimal or no relativemovement between the sixth accessory 14 f and the clamp assembly 230.

Turning now specifically to reference FIG. 34, the lever 232 is shownrotated from the first position (phantom line) around the pivot axleaxis 249 to a second position (solid line). In the second position, theclamp assembly 230 is generally in the open position where the firstclamp member 236 is displaced or offset relative to the second clampmember 238. In order to move the lever 232 from the first position(phantom line, FIG. 34) to the second position (solid line, FIG. 34), auser can urge the user engagement portion 242 (such as by pulling theuser engagement portion 242 with an index finger) in a directiongenerally upwardly as viewed in FIG. 34 and toward the housing 220. Inorder to rotate the lever 232 around the pivot axle 248, a user mustovercome the biasing force of the biasing member 320 (FIG. 30). Duringrotation of the lever 232 around the pivot axle 248, the flange opposingsurface 310 and the pocket 308 of the lever body 300 generally transmitsan upward force (in a direction against the biasing force of the biasingmember 320) onto the lever opposing surface 291. In this regard, thelever 232 can generally lift the first clamp member 236 at the annularflange 286 to move the clamping surface 287 away from the second clampmember 238.

With the clamp assembly 230 in the open position, the first and secondclamp members 236 and 238, respectively, provide enough clearance, suchthat a user can remove the sixth accessory 14 f away from the clampassembly 230. In one example, it may be necessary to initially lift thesixth accessory 14 f away from the male conical protrusions 258 beforepulling the sixth accessory 14 f away from the clamp assembly 230.

The pivot axle 248 can be located a distance 370 measuredperpendicularly from a point 372 on a longitudinal centerline of thespindle 226. In one example, the distance 370 can be long enough to givethe user a mechanical advantage to comfortably overcome the bias of thebiasing member 320 when moving the lever 232 to the second position(clamp assembly 230 open). A distance 374 measured between the point 372and a plane defined by the clamping surface 287 can be less than thedistance 370.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or featuresof a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A clamp arrangement for releasably securing anaccessory having a radially open-ended aperture to a vertically orientedoutput spindle of an oscillating power tool that is rotationally drivenabout an axis by a motor, the oscillating power tool having a tool bodywith an exposed end portion of the output spindle projecting from anunderside of the tool body, the clamp arrangement comprising: a clampassembly coupled to the end portion of the output spindle of theoscillating power tool and including first and second clamp members, thesecond clamp member being fixedly secured to the end portion of theoutput spindle below the first clamp member at a fixed distance awayfrom the underside of the tool body, the first clamp member beingmovable along the axis of the output spindle relative to the secondclamp member between a closed position wherein the clamp assemblyretains the accessory between the first and second clamp members and anopen position wherein the first clamp member of the clamp assembly isoffset upwardly from the accessory and displaced toward the underside ofthe tool body permitting radial removal of the accessory from the clampassembly while the first clamp member remains coupled to the outputspindle; and an actuator having a user engagement portion positionedintermediate the underside of the tool body and the second clamp memberand being movably coupled relative to the tool body between a firstposition, wherein the clamp assembly is in the closed position, and asecond position wherein movement of the user engagement portion of theactuator causes the clamp assembly to be moved to the open position. 2.The clamp arrangement of claim 1 wherein the actuator comprises a leverhaving a pivot portion including a pivot axle, the lever being pivotallycoupled relative to the tool body about a pivot axle between the firstand second positions.
 3. The clamp arrangement of claim 2 wherein theclamp assembly is arranged on the tool body in a position such that theaccessory oscillates about a longitudinal axis that is locatedintermediate the pivot axle and the user engagement portion.
 4. Theclamp arrangement of claim 2, further comprising a first biasing memberthat biases the clamp assembly toward the closed position.
 5. The clamparrangement of claim 4, further comprising a second biasing memberdisposed generally between the user engagement portion of the lever andthe tool body and that biases the user engagement portion of the leveraway from the tool body.
 6. The clamp arrangement of claim 1 wherein thesecond clamp member has a first portion that opposes the first clampmember and cooperates with the first clamp member to clamp the accessorybetween the first and second clamp members.
 7. The clamp arrangement ofclaim 6 wherein the first clamp member comprises a first clamp bodyhaving one of a first plurality of protrusions extending from a firstclamping surface and a first plurality of recesses formed into the firstclamping surface.
 8. The clamp arrangement of claim 7 wherein the secondclamp member comprises a second clamp body having a second clampingsurface that opposes the first clamping surface and includes the otherof the first plurality of protrusions and the first plurality ofrecesses, wherein the first plurality of protrusions are configured tocooperatively locate into the corresponding first plurality of recessesin the closed position.
 9. The clamp arrangement of claim 8 furthercomprising an accessory having a plurality of mounting formationstherethrough, the first plurality of protrusions each having a conicalouter surface that locates partially through and engages the pluralityof mounting formations of the accessory in the closed position, whereinthe accessory is positioned offset from the second clamping surface ofthe second clamp body.
 10. The clamp arrangement of claim 8 wherein thesecond clamp body further comprises an auxiliary attachment surface, onan opposite facing surface of the second clamp body from the secondclamping surface, and configured to selectively and alternativelyconnect with a secondary accessory; and further wherein said clamparrangement further includes a connecting member for fixedly connectingsaid secondary accessory to said auxiliary attachment surface.
 11. Theclamp arrangement of claim 10 wherein the auxiliary attachment surfacefurther comprises one of a second plurality of protrusions and secondplurality of recesses thereon that are configured to cooperatively matewith the secondary accessory.
 12. The clamp arrangement of claim 10wherein said connecting member comprises a bolt that is configured to bethreaded into a threaded bore in the end of the output spindle.
 13. Aclamp arrangement for releasably securing an accessory having a radiallyopen-ended aperture to a vertically oriented output spindle of anoscillating power tool that is rotationally driven about an axis by amotor, the oscillating power tool having a tool body with an exposed endportion of the output spindle projecting from an underside of the toolbody, the clamp arrangement comprising: a clamp assembly coupled to theend portion of the output spindle of the oscillating power tool andincluding a first clamp member that moves axially relative to theaccessory between a closed position wherein the clamp assembly retainsthe accessory and an open position wherein the first clamp member of theclamp assembly is offset upwardly from the accessory permitting radialremoval of the accessory from the clamp assembly; an arm having a userengagement portion positioned intermediate the underside of the toolbody and the accessory and a pivot portion including a pivot axle, thearm being pivotally coupled relative to the tool body about the pivotaxle between a first position, wherein the clamp assembly is in theclosed position and a second position wherein movement of the userengagement portion of the arm causes the clamp assembly to be moved tothe open position; and wherein the clamp assembly is arranged on thetool body in a position such that the accessory oscillates about alongitudinal axis that is located intermediate the pivot axle and theuser engagement portion.
 14. The clamp arrangement of claim 13 whereinthe clamp assembly further comprises a second clamp member having afirst portion that opposes the first clamp member and cooperates withthe first clamp member to clamp the accessory between the first andsecond clamp members.
 15. The clamp arrangement of claim 14 wherein thefirst clamp member comprises a first clamp body having one of a firstplurality of protrusions extending from a first clamping surface and afirst plurality of recesses formed into the first clamping surface. 16.The clamp arrangement of claim 15 wherein the second clamp membercomprises a second clamp body having a second clamping surface thatopposes the first clamping surface and includes the other of the firstplurality of protrusions and first plurality of recesses, wherein thefirst plurality of protrusions are configured to cooperatively locateinto the corresponding first plurality of recesses in the closedposition.
 17. The clamp arrangement of claim 16 wherein the second clampbody further comprises an auxiliary attachment surface, on an oppositefacing surface of the second clamp body from the second clampingsurface, and configured to selectively and alternatively connect with asecondary accessory.
 18. The clamp arrangement of claim 17 wherein theauxiliary attachment surface further comprises one of a second pluralityof protrusions and second plurality of recesses thereon that areconfigured to cooperatively mate with the secondary accessory.
 19. Theclamp arrangement of claim 17 wherein said clamp arrangement furtherincludes a connecting member comprising a bolt that is configured to bethreaded into a threaded bore in the end of the output spindle tofixedly connect said second accessory to said auxiliary attachmentsurface.
 20. A clamp arrangement for releasably securing an accessoryhaving a radially open-ended aperture to a longitudinally extendingoutput spindle of an oscillating power tool that is rotationally drivenabout a longitudinal axis by a motor, the oscillating power tool havinga tool body with an exposed end portion of the output spindle projectinglongitudinally along said longitudinal axis from an underside of thetool body, the clamp arrangement comprising: a clamp assembly includingfirst and second clamp members, the second clamp member being fixedlysecured to the end portion of the output spindle at a fixed distanceaway from the underside of the tool body, the first clamp member beingmovably disposed on the output spindle between the second clamp memberand the underside of the tool body for longitudinal movement alignedwith said longitudinal axis between a closed position wherein the clampassembly retains the accessory between the first and second clampmembers and an open position wherein the first clamp member of the clampassembly is longitudinally offset along said longitudinal axis from thesecond clamp member and displaced toward the underside of the tool bodypermitting radial removal of the accessory from the clamp assembly whilethe first clamp member remains coupled to the output spindle; and anactuator having a user engagement portion and being movably coupledrelative to the tool body between a first position, wherein the clampassembly is in the closed position, and a second position wherein theclamp assembly is in the open position; and wherein movement of the userengagement portion of the actuator causes the clamp assembly to be movedfrom the closed position to the open position.
 21. The clamp arrangementof claim 20 wherein the user engagement portion of said actuator islongitudinally positioned along said longitudinal axis intermediate theunderside of the tool body and the second clamp member.